Understanding Bereavement Therapy

Losing a loved one is one of the most painful experiences a person can endure. While grief is a natural process, for some, it can become overwhelming.

Bereavement therapy, or grief counselling, offers a supportive space to explore emotions, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and navigate the complexities of loss. As Counsellors, we understand that grief is a deeply personal and non-linear experience, with no definitive timeline for healing. But when is the best time to start bereavement therapy? Lucy Thalayasingam, one of our Counselling Clinical Leads shares her expert insights.

When Should Bereavement Therapy Be Started?

Bereavement services often recommend a period of waiting, known as “watchful waiting”, before beginning grief counselling. This allows individuals to naturally process the many phases of grief and adjust to their loss before deciding whether structured therapeutic support is needed. Grief Therapy models often acknowledge seven non-linear phases of grief, which individuals word through in a normal grief reaction. The initial stage is shock and denial, often coupled with the practicalities of dealing with a loss. During this stage, grief can cause neurological changes in the pre-frontal cortex and limbic system, areas of the brain responsible for emotional regulation, memory, organisation, and learning. This can lead to decreased cognitive functioning, affecting the ability to fully engage in therapy if undertaken too soon after a bereavement.

There is no evidence-based timeline dictating when someone should begin grief counselling- some may feel ready within a few weeks, while others may need months or even years. Therapy may be beneficial if grief becomes prolonged or significantly impacts daily life.

Indicators That Bereavement Therapy May Be Helpful

• Prolonged or Unresolved Grief: If grief persists for months or years without improvement, it may indicate complicated grief, which can benefit from professional support.
• Difficulty Functioning: Struggling with daily tasks, work, or relationships can signify that grief is overwhelming and support if needed.
• Physical Symptoms: Grief can manifest physically, leading to fatigue and sleep disturbances. If these symptoms persist, therapy may help.
• Intense Guilt or Anger: Overwhelming emotions of guilt or anger that hinder the healing process can be explored and processed in a therapeutic setting.
• Avoidance of Grief: If someone is suppressing or avoiding their grief, therapy can provide a safe space to confront and process these difficult emotions.
• Worsening Mental Health: If grief exacerbates conditions such as depression or anxiety, therapy can offer tools to help manage both grief and mental health challenges.

The Role of Bereavement Therapy in Healing

While grief is a natural response to loss, bereavement therapy can provide guidance, emotional support, and coping strategies to navigate this difficult journey. Early interventions may be beneficial for some, particularly if grief becomes overwhelming or interferes with daily life. However, it is essential to recognise that grief unfolds uniquely for everyone, and the right time to seek therapy will vary.

At Teladoc Health UK, we offer bereavement support tailored to individual needs, ensuring compassionate and professional guidance during this challenging time. If you are struggling with grief, our team is here to help you find the support that best suits your journey towards healing.

Read this case study: “The Teladoc Health Bereavement service stopped me losing my new job after my Mum died.”